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Concerns have been raised regarding toxic-element (arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury) contamination of commercially available infant foods around the world. Young children are vulnerable to the effects of toxic elements, based on higher absorption levels and potentially poorer detoxification capacities. Toxic-element exposures in early life exact high societal costs, but it is unclear how much dietary exposure to these elements contributes to adverse health outcomes. Well-designed epidemiological studies conducted in different geographical and socioeconomic contexts need to estimate dietary toxicant exposure in young children and to determine whether causal links exist between toxicants in children's diets and health outcomes. This commentary outlines the methodological considerations and data needs to advance such research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on childhood lead exposure which is still a problem in many cities in the U.S. including Flint in Michigan. Topics include the sources of lead exposure, the confusing clinical guidelines for lead exposure, and the role of occupational health nurses in mitigating childhood lead exposure by educating workers and advocating for blood lead level testing.